BC Hunting News

It may feel like summer outside, but it’s time to begin getting ready for your fall hunting trips! September is on our heels and there’s plenty to do in order to prep for the upcoming hunts. Start preparing early, and be confident that you’re ready.

If you have a big trip planned this hunting season, don’t wait to start thinking about logistics, packing and practice. Spending a little time getting ready now will mean less cramming before the hunt, less stress and more fun. Here are four things that should be on the pre-trip checklist for every western mountain hunter:

1. Time in Your Boots

If you discover a hot spot, or other issue with your boots on the hunt, it probably means you didn’t do your homework. Put your boots on now and wear them often in advance of the season. Quality boots shouldn’t require much break-in. The real reason for wearing them is to discover any hot spots or other issues that will cause problems in the field. If you do need to make a change, it’s much better to discover that now than when you are in deep on a wilderness hunt.

2. Bow and Rifle Practice

It might sound like a broken record, but it can’t be emphasized enough. Bow and rifle practice should not wait. It’s time to go beyond sighting in and train with repetition. Try and shoot as often as possible leading up to the season. Step away from the shooting bench and practice realistic positions. Most importantly, don’t forget to practice in your hunting gear. Things feel different when you’re wearing your bino harness, a backpack, and several other layers.

3. Clothing and Equipment Check

Try on all your clothing and set up each piece of gear as if you were going hunting. If you discover problems, there’s still time to order a new piece or make changes. Any items used last season should be checked to make sure they still fit and function properly. And of course it’s important to familiarize yourself with any new items.

4. Pre-Trip Packing

Seriously, go ahead and pack your bag. Even if your trip isn’t until later in the season, this is a great time to pack. Packing will help you identify any missing pieces and verify that all your equipment fits into the appropriate luggage for travel. If you’re traveling to a destination that requires a floatplane, like here in northern British Columbia, you may have to stay within certain weight limits. If you discover issues or items that aren’t going to work, it’s better to deal with it now than the week of departure.

A western mountain hunt requires pre-planning and some important logistics. Having these items ready well in advance of your trip will help make the whole experience more enjoyable. On your day of departure, go and have fun with extreme confidence, knowing that you are well prepared.

Here at Kawdy Outfitters, we offer unforgettable hunting adventures in the most remote part of B.C. near the headwaters of the Yukon River system. Our clients arrive by floatplane to one of our remote base camps, and then strike out on horseback in to some of the most game-rich and trophy-rich country in North America. For information, explore the rest of our website at KawdyOutfitters.com or Contact Us for details.

Written byRyan McSparran

Ryan McSparran is an outdoor writer, a hunting and fly fishing guide, and very proud to be a part of the Kawdy Outfitters team.